Construction leaders connect for two-day CCA Partner Association Symposium
More than 40 representatives from construction associations across Canada gathered in Calgary on May 21–22, 2025, for the annual Canadian Construction Association Partner Association Symposium. From British Columbia to Newfoundland and even the Yukon, Chief Operating Officers (COOs) and partner association staff came together for two energetic days of idea-sharing, networking, and big-picture thinking.
Sharing ideas, tackling challenges
“COO sessions developed by COOs for COOs.”
— Erin Low, Lethbridge Construction Association
Day 1 began with a roundtable of introductions where COOs shared exciting updates from their regions. Attendees heard about a wide range of projects, including British Columbia Construction Association’s (BCCA) innovative permit access tool, Toronto Construction Association’s (TCA) custom-built CRM system, Construction Association of Prince Edward Island’s (CAPEI) inspiring net-zero tiny homes project that trains at-risk youth in Red Seal trades, Surety Association of Canada’s economic study, and Construction Association of New Brunswick’s (CANB) expanding DEI Consortium aimed at creating more inclusive pathways into the industry.
Engaging panel discussions tackled hot topics like the future of membership, effective advocacy strategies, and how AI is shaking up operations for the better. An interactive session, “Above the tree line,” encouraged participants to exchange ideas on topics central to associations, such as succession, the member of the future, value differentiation, events, revenue, and even a quick dive into what associations should start, stop, or continue doing.
Updates on Saskatchewan’s construction association alignment and CCA-led governance insights rounded out the day’s agenda.
Strategic planning and national collaboration
Day 2 focused on strategy, with a hands-on workshop led by Axel Strategies. This session offered partners a chance to help shape CCA’s 2026–2029 plan. Delegates also toured the Calgary Construction Association’s office, reviewed and approved the updated Partner Association MOU, and discussed the rollout of the new Join the network national membership campaign.
“Having input into the CCA strat plan was a great opportunity. As always just hearing what the other associations are doing and where they are struggling is an encouragement to know that we are not alone and have the support of CCA and our partner associations.”
—Shawn Wood, Construction Association of Rural Manitoba
The symposium concluded with a networking reception hosted by the Calgary Construction Association, followed by an in-depth panel on the outcomes of the federal election, featuring speakers from CCA as well as the Alberta and Calgary construction associations.
Building connections and looking to next year
The 2025 Partner Association Symposium was more than just a meeting—it was a catalyst for connection, innovation, and building on the national momentum among Canada’s construction leaders.
Feedback for the event has been very positive with attendees appreciating the practical takeaways, thoughtful conversations, and the chance to collaborate with peers from across the country.
“The relevant networking opportunities with my colleagues— this is more valuable to me than any other event. I also loved attending the post-election event that Calgary put on, that really highlighted the three levels of government working together for our members represented by the three associations. Awesome.”
—Shannon Friesen, Construction Association of Saskatchewan
Planning is already underway for the 2026 symposium, with a continued focus on providing impactful sessions that address the needs and priorities of CCA’s partner associations and their members.
